Afghanistan: At least 49 killed in May 31 Kabul suicide bombing /update 2

Event

As of 11:00 (local time), the Afghan Ministry of Health reported 49 fatalities and over 320 injuries from the suicide truck bombing perpetrated near the German Embassy in the capital Kabul at around 08:25 (local time) on Wednesday, May 31. The detonation took place near Zanbaq Square in the Wazir Akbar Khan area, in the center of Kabul’s diplomatic quarter and the highly secured “Green Zone.” The vehicle-borne suicide bomb was reportedly delivered within a water tanker and contained over 1500 kg (3300 lb) of explosives that left a 7 m (23 ft) deep crater. Extensive structural damage to buildings and vehicles within a several hundred meter radius has been reported. The Green Zone remains under lockdown with no movement in or out.

No groups has yet claimed responsibility; the Taliban or Islamic State (IS) are both possible culprits.

This is a developing situation; the casualty toll is likely to rise in the coming hours.

Context

This attack takes place during the holy month of Ramadan (May 26-June 25). Typically, there is a heightened terror threat during this period in Afghanistan; the Islamic State (IS) has in the past called on members to perpetrate attacks during Ramadan and some regional terrorist groups followed suit. Furthermore, the Taliban, widely present in the region, announced the official start of their yearly spring offensive in late April, an announcement typically followed by a nationwide surge in attacks.

Advice

As always, due to major security concerns individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.